Optimistic outlook for UAE tourism industry

The boom in the UAE’s tourism and shopping sector looks set to continue, with a positive growth of 6.5% per year forecast to last until at least 2021. That’s according to a new study by the World Travel and Tourism Council. The optimistic growth will come as a major boost for the UAE, which continues to invest heavily in its tourism and leisure infrastructure. The study also revealed that the majority of tourists’ spending money – 74.7% - goes towards leisure activities. Dubai continues to be the top performing emirate in terms of tourism. Last month, the city was ranked as the eighth best tourist destination in the world, according to an index released by MasterCard. The emirate is expected to attract 8.8 million visitors this year, with spending estimated at around $8.8 billion.